Tiotropium: An Overview
Tiotropium belongs to the anticholinergic class. This medication is used for chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. The drug relaxes the airways of your lungs and makes it easier for you to inhale. Tiotropium can be purchased under the name Spiriva and it is also generically available.
How is Tiotropium used?
Tiotropium can be used to treat COPD long term. The drug works by blocking the actions of an neurotransmitter known as acetylcholine. This helps to keep your airways open. It allows for more airflow through the channels, making it easier to inhale. study after study has shown that tiotropium significantly improved lung function, and reduced symptoms such as wheezing and shortness of breath.
Tiotropium also has the ability to decrease exacerbations, or sudden worsening in symptoms for people suffering from COPD. Although its efficacy in treating asthma is unknown, it is sometimes prescribed off-label.
Tiotropium's Purported Benefits
Tiotropium has been shown to be effective and safe in treating COPD. It has been shown to significantly increase lung function and decrease symptoms in studies . You can reduce your risk of developing exacerbations. Tiotropium comes in an easy-to-use inhaler.
Tiotropium has potential other benefits than its COPD benefits. Some studies suggest that it could improve the quality of life for people suffering from COPD and reduce hospitalizations. These findings need to be confirmed by more research .
Side effects of Tiotropium
Tiotropium can generally be tolerated if taken as prescribed. Dry mouth, headache, sore throat and dryness are the most frequent side effects. Dizziness, nausea and constipation are less common side effects. People may experience allergic reactions to tiotropium. This can lead to skin rashes, swelling, and itching.
Rarely, side effects of tiotropium may include difficulty breathing, rapid or irregular heartbeats, and chest pain. You should immediately stop using tiotropium if you have any of these symptoms.
Tiotropium Expert Opinions
Most experts agree that tiotropium can be used as a safe, effective and affordable treatment for COPD. This can reduce symptoms, improve lung function and reduce exacerbations. It is also easy to use with low side effects.
Experts warn that you should not use tiotropium as an alternative to quitting smoking. Stop smoking to lower your chances of getting COPD. It can also improve your health. Discuss with your doctor the best ways to quit smoking, and if you are a candidate for tiotropium.
Tiotropium: How to Get Started
Your doctor may prescribe tiotropium to you. They will give instructions for how to properly use the medication. Tiotropium is available in an inhaler and should only be used once daily. Before using an inhaler, make sure you read and understand all instructions. Follow them precisely. You should not exceed the prescribed dose.
Tiotropium is not a quick fix. You may not notice a change in your symptoms for several weeks. If you aren't seeing any improvements, make sure that you take your medication exactly as directed.
You should immediately contact your doctor if you have any side effects from tiotropium. Your doctor may be able adjust the dosage of tiotropium or suggest another drug.
Conclusion
Tiotropium, a medicine that treats COPD is called. The medication works by blocking the action acetylcholine. This allows for more airflow through the airways. It has been shown to significantly improve lung function, and decrease symptoms associated with COPD. It can also help to reduce exacerbations. Although Tiotropium can be tolerated well and is safe, it may cause side effects for some.
Follow the directions carefully, and make sure you take the prescribed dose of tiotropium as directed by your doctor. You may not notice a change in your symptoms for several weeks. You should immediately contact your doctor if you have any side effects.